Wired gaming headsets are great for communicating with online friends, but their cords get in the way during intense gaming sessions. There's a solution: wireless gaming headsets, which free you from those annoying cables. We've tested gaming headsets for more than 10 years, carefully analyzing audio quality, making test recordings using the built-in microphones, playing games to evaluate spatial audio, and exploring their apps that enable EQ settings and other sound-related features. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is our top overall pick, thanks to its excellent performance and build quality, active noise cancellation, flexible transmitter, and dual-swappable batteries, but it's not the only one we recommend. Read on to learn more about our favorites in the best wireless gaming headsets category.
Overview
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![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless]()
Best Overall Gaming HeadsetSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
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![Razer Barracuda X (2022)]()
Best Budget Gaming HeadsetRazer Barracuda X (2022)
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![Razer Blackshark V3 Pro]()
Best Gaming Headset With Noise CancellationRazer Blackshark V3 Pro
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![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite]()
Best Gaming Headset for AudiophilesSteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite
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![Turtle Beach Atlas Air]()
Best Open-Back Gaming HeadsetTurtle Beach Atlas Air
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![Logitech G Astro A50 X]()
Best HDMI-Switching Gaming HeadsetLogitech G Astro A50 X
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![Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT]()
Most Whimsical Gaming Headset DesignRazer Kraken Kitty V2 BT
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![SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds]()
Best Wireless Gaming EarbudsSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless]()
Best Overall Gaming HeadsetSteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
This is one of the most functional and best-performing wireless gaming headsets we've tested. The base station connects to two different devices over USB, so you can use the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless with your PC and console without switching cables. The base also features a slot to charge the headset's spare battery, which is a massive boon; instead of plugging in the headset or taking a break, you can simply swap batteries and stay charged and wirelessly connected for as long as you play.
It sounds excellent, too, though you'll get the most benefit if you spend some time in the SteelSeries GG software to tweak the audio performance. It's one of the few gaming headsets (or headphones, for that matter) to offer a full parametric EQ, rather than the standard five- or 10-band EQ. That means you can create precise audio curves for your favorite games. It has Bluetooth, too.
Who It's For
PC gamers: The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is primarily designed for PC gamers, as the software helps them optimize the headset's performance. The base station features a large knob for adjusting volume levels or controlling the game/chat mix. It's still a console-friendly headset, though you must choose between the PlayStation or Xbox versions (the PC model works with both systems).
Cable haters: Most wireless gaming headsets need to be plugged in to charge, but not this one. Two swappable batteries mean you don't have to tether yourself to a power source, no matter how long you play.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 36 hours Bluetooth Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Frequency Range 10Hz–40kHz (music), 100Hz-6.5kHz (voice) Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Review -
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![Razer Barracuda X (2022)]()
Best Budget Gaming HeadsetRazer Barracuda X (2022)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
When we first tested it, the Barracuda X used a USB-C transmitter for wireless connectivity, with a 3.5mm wired option for devices with a headphone jack. This lets the Barracuda X work with numerous systems (PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and any Android phone with a USB-C port), making it a flexible wireless gaming headset for less than $100. Razer has since added Bluetooth and simulated surround to the cans. Bluetooth enables it to work as a pair of wireless headphones without a transmitter, which is very convenient. The 7.1-channel simulated surround is only for PCs and isn't as accurate as THX Spatial Audio on Razer's higher-end headsets. Still, any surround sound on an inexpensive wireless headset is welcome. The mic's impressively clear, too.
Who It's For
Budget-minded gamers: Anyone looking for inexpensive wireless audio for their PC, PlayStation, or Switch should consider the Barracuda X. It combines 7.1 simulated surround sound with a sub-$100 price, making it particularly attractive.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Razer Barracuda X (2022) Review -
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![Razer Blackshark V3 Pro]()
Best Gaming Headset With Noise CancellationRazer Blackshark V3 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro may be $50 more expensive than its predecessor, but it comes with an important feature: active noise cancellation (ANC). The headset effectively blocks out distractions while you play, and it provides excellent sound quality and a clear microphone. It also offers spatial audio on PC through Razer's software, and supports both Bluetooth and 3.5mm wired connections via its 2.4GHz USB transmitter.
Who It's For
Gamers who need to focus: This is an excellent gaming headset if you want to dampen ambient noise without spending more than $300 on another model with features you don't need (like a full base station with multi-system connectivity).
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Razer Blackshark V3 Pro Review -
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![SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite]()
Best Gaming Headset for AudiophilesSteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite is one of the best-sounding headsets I've ever tested. It builds on the already excellent Arctis Nova Pro Wireless by adding carbon fiber with brass surrounds, wireless 96kHz/24-bit hi-res audio, and the ability to connect to three systems over USB at once, including PlayStation and Xbox. Most of its upgrades apply more to music than gaming, though, and at $220 more than the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, it's very expensive. But worth it.
Who It's For
Audiophile gamers: The Elite's hi-res audio capabilities and overall refined, polished sound will satisfy audio die-hards who swear by lossless music formats. If you don't have strong opinions about bitrates and headphone driver materials, the extra aural finesse probably won't justify the extra cash over the Pro Wireless.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type 2.4GHz Connection Type Bluetooth 5.3 Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite Review -
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![Turtle Beach Atlas Air]()
Best Open-Back Gaming HeadsetTurtle Beach Atlas Air
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Atlas Air is a rare open-back gaming headset with earcups that let air freely flow in and out. This enables a more natural, open sound than the typical closed-back gaming headset, which lets air move only where the earcup faces the ear (which is why many audiophiles prefer open-back headphones). It's a comfortable and great-sounding gaming headset for PCs and Bluetooth-enabled devices. Be aware that the open-back design means it won't block noise.
Who It's For
Open-back headphone lovers: If you want accurate sound that gives a good sense of space and doesn't isolate your ears from your surroundings, the Atlas Air is one of the few gaming headsets that delivers.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Turtle Beach Atlas Air Review -
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![Logitech G Astro A50 X]()
Best HDMI-Switching Gaming HeadsetLogitech G Astro A50 X
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Logitech G's flagship Astro-series gaming headset resembles the last few iterations of the A50, but it introduces a new feature: a base station that can simultaneously connect to a PC, PlayStation, and Xbox and switch between them with the touch of a button. It pulls this off with a bit of cable tango, using the transmitter as an HDMI switch for the two consoles, and it works well.
Who It's For
Gamers who own a PlayStation and an Xbox: If you have both a PS5 and an Xbox Series X and want to use the same headset for both without juggling transmitters or plugging a wire into your controller, the A50 X is the only way to do it. It also sounds good, features an excellent microphone, and even works over Bluetooth, making it convenient for on-the-go use.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type HDMI Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Type Gaming Wireless Learn More Logitech G Astro A50 X Review -
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![Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT]()
Most Whimsical Gaming Headset DesignRazer Kraken Kitty V2 BT
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sometimes you just want to game while wearing glowing pink cat ears. The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT lets you do precisely that, with pointy kitten ears and RGB lighting sticking out of a bubblegum pink headband. Since it's a Bluetooth headset, the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT is better suited for on-the-go use, but it's still lots of fun and an easy recommendation.
Who It's For
Playful, budget-minded streamers: If you want to up your streaming style and don't mind compromising on connectivity or mic quality, this is the headset for you. It's also just a fun set of Bluetooth headphones.
On-the-go, on-the-low furries: The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT is a Bluetooth headset with a feline angle. So you can wear cat ears anywhere you want, without it becoming a whole thing.
Specs & Configurations
Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type USB Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless Learn More Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Review -
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![SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds]()
Best Wireless Gaming EarbudsSteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
In the past, we've seen a few true wireless headphones try to serve as gaming headsets, but the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are the best so far. They have a powerful sound, surprisingly good microphones for earbuds, and come packed with customization features through SteelSeries' mobile and PC apps. The Arctis GameBuds come with a USB-C transmitter for higher-quality, lower-latency audio, and support Bluetooth for use with your phone.
Who It's For
Earphone lovers: These are for gamers who want full audio on the go without the bulk of a conventional headset. The Arctis GameBuds are a bit pricey, with mediocre noise cancellation at best, but they're impressive on all other fronts.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth 5.3 Connection Type USB-C True Wireless Type Gaming Type In-Canal Wireless Learn More SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds Review -
Compare Specs
Our Pick | |||||||||||
Rating |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
Best For | Best Overall Gaming Headset | Best Budget Gaming Headset | Best Gaming Headset With Noise Cancellation | Best Gaming Headset for Audiophiles | Best Open-Back Gaming Headset | Best HDMI-Switching Gaming Headset | Most Whimsical Gaming Headset Design | Best Wireless Gaming Earbuds | Best Overall Gaming Headset | Best Budget Gaming Headset | Best Gaming Headset With Noise Cancellation |
Type | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear) | In-Canal, Gaming | Gaming, Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming | Circumaural (over-ear), Gaming |
Wireless | |||||||||||
True Wireless | |||||||||||
Connection Type | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | Bluetooth, USB-C, Stereo 3.5mm | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.3 | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | USB-C, HDMI | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | Bluetooth, USB-C, Stereo 3.5mm | USB, Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm |
Water/Sweat-Resistant | |||||||||||
Active Noise Cancellation |
Buying Guide: The Best Wireless Gaming Headsets for 2026
Which Wireless Headsets Are Compatible With Switch, PlayStation, or Xbox?
Compatibility is the most crucial aspect of purchasing a gaming headset, particularly if you're a console gamer. Headsets with 3.5mm connectors work with a wide range of devices, but wireless headsets typically use USB transmitters that require compatibility with your specific system.
Most wireless headsets work with PCs out of the box, but PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series compatibility is typically an either/or matter. Because the two consoles use USB differently, support for the PS5 and Xbox is generally mutually exclusive. Generally, you should check a wireless headset's product page or packaging to see if it's compatible with those systems.
Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 compatibility is a little more complicated. Few wireless gaming headsets are specifically designed for Nintendo's systems, and adapters are often hit-or-miss, especially on the Switch 2. On the upside, both Switch consoles feature Bluetooth, so you can enjoy wireless audio with any compatible Bluetooth headset. However, the headset's microphone won't work through that connection. It's less of a problem for the Switch 2, since that system has a built-in mic that works fairly well in both handheld and docked modes.
Recommended by Our Editors
Which Wireless Gaming Headset Has the Best Mic?
All gaming headsets come with microphones, but not all microphones offer the same level of performance. A good headset mic should provide clear voice communication at a minimum, but it likely won't be broadcast-quality. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a great starting point, as it features an excellent microphone for streaming, commentary, and podcasts. Others let you be heard in voice chat but may introduce wireless artifacts, sibilance, or subpar clarity.
If you're serious about streaming or recording, you should consider a dedicated USB microphone. Good mics cost around $50 to $150, and offer far superior audio quality than nearly any boom mic. You need to be careful with the positioning and configuration of a separate microphone, but it's worthwhile if you want to work professionally. See our story on how to make your podcast sound better for general tips that apply to all recording and broadcasting scenarios.
As for the best wireless gaming headset, you can't go wrong with any of the options we've tested here. Choose the one that meets your budget and needs, and start playing.